What should I do if I experience severe pain on the first day of my menstrual period?

Nov 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

Warm compresses can promote blood circulation in the abdominal area, relax the smooth muscles of the uterus, thereby relieving uterine spasms and reducing pain. A hot water bag or warm towel can be applied to the lower abdomen. If using a hot water bag, the water temperature should be warm and comfortable, generally around 50-60°C. Wrap the hot water bag with a towel and place it on the lower abdomen for 15-20 minutes each time. This can be repeated as needed.

Generally, if experiencing severe pain on the first day of menstruation, methods such as applying heat, drinking brown sugar ginger tea, resting, massage, and medication can help alleviate the discomfort. Details are as follows:

1. Heat application: Applying heat can improve abdominal blood circulation and relax the smooth muscle of the uterus, thereby relieving uterine spasms and reducing pain. A hot water bottle or warm towel can be placed on the lower abdomen. If using a hot water bottle, the water temperature should be around 50-60°C—warm and comfortable to the touch. Wrap the bottle in a towel before placing it on the lower abdomen for 15-20 minutes per session, and repeat as needed.

2. Drinking brown sugar ginger tea: Both brown sugar and ginger have a warming effect on the uterus. Brown sugar contains abundant nutrients such as sucrose, vitamins, and trace elements, which can provide energy to the body. Ginger has the effect of warming the meridians and dispelling cold. Together, they can promote blood circulation and relieve dysmenorrhea.

3. Rest: When the body is at rest, more energy can be directed toward relieving uterine spasms and pain. Dysmenorrhea may worsen when the body is stressed or fatigued, while sufficient rest allows both the body and the uterus to relax. During rest, listening to calming music can help relax the mind and body and relieve tension. Each rest session should last for more than 30 minutes.

4. Massage: Massaging certain acupoints can regulate the circulation of qi and blood, helping to relieve menstrual pain. For example, massaging the lower abdomen can directly stimulate the tissues and meridians around the uterus, promoting local blood circulation. Acupoint massage can regulate the functions of internal organs and alleviate pain.

5. Medication: Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, acetaminophen tablets, and Yuanhu Zhitong capsules can be used for pain relief. Traditional Chinese medicines with functions of promoting blood circulation to remove blood stasis and warming meridians to relieve pain, such as Angelica sinensis (Dang Gui), Chuanxiong (Ligusticum wallichii), and Motherwort (Leonurus japonicus), may also be taken to regulate qi and blood and relieve dysmenorrhea.

If the symptoms of dysmenorrhea persist severely and are accompanied by other abnormal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, prompt medical attention should be sought.

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How many days does a normal menstrual period last?

Menstruation is an important part of the female physiological cycle, and its duration varies among individuals. Generally, a menstrual period lasting between 3 to 7 days is considered normal. This timeframe is calculated from the first day of menstruation, which is the day vaginal bleeding begins, up to the day the bleeding completely stops.

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Why is it not recommended to drink brown sugar water on the first day of menstruation?

In general, "big aunt" (大姨妈) refers to menstruation. Drinking brown sugar water on the first day of menstruation is not recommended, possibly due to reasons such as increased menstrual flow, blood sugar fluctuations, risk of heatiness (excess internal heat), exacerbated dysmenorrhea (menstrual pain), and gastrointestinal discomfort. If discomfort occurs, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, one can choose beverages such as warm water or ginger soup, which may help relieve menstrual pain and promote relaxation.

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Why is the blood black on the first day of menstruation, and what should be done?

Menstruation refers to a woman's monthly period. Generally, black-colored blood on the first day of menstruation may be caused by light menstrual flow, hormonal imbalance, cold uterus, endometritis, abnormal uterine position, or other reasons. Appropriate management should be determined according to the specific situation. If menstrual blood remains black for a prolonged period or is accompanied by physical discomfort, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation at a hospital to determine the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment.

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How to determine a menstrual cycle

Under normal circumstances, a menstrual cycle is calculated as the time interval from the first day of one menstrual period to the first day of the next menstrual period. The calculation of the menstrual cycle starts on the first day of menstruation. If a woman with a previously regular menstrual cycle suddenly experiences changes in her cycle, or if her cycle becomes unusually long or short, especially when accompanied by other uncomfortable symptoms, she should seek medical attention at a hospital promptly.